Press Release

March 20, 2017

Bhutan observed the International Day of Happiness (IDH) on 20 March 2017 with the lighting of a thousand butter lamps at the National Memorial Chorten. Lyonpo Damcho Dorji, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan led the commemoration. The event was attended by senior officials of the Royal Government, representatives of the diplomatic community, international organizations, and civil society.

On 28th June 2012, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 20th March as the International Day of Happiness. The occasion is observed internationally, including through educational and public awareness raising activities.

Based on the GNH approach to development, a resolution entitled, “Happiness: Towards a holistic approach to development”, was introduced by Bhutan at the United Nations in 2011. The resolution recognizes the pursuit of happiness as a fundamental human goal as well as the need for a more inclusive, equitable and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes sustainable development, poverty eradication, happiness and the well-being of all peoples.

In his keynote address at the Global Dialogue on Happiness in Dubai on 11th February 2017, Hon’ble Lyonchhen affirmed that governments should recognize happiness as a public good, rather than relegating it as an individual pursuit.